CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
Amid circulating media reports suggesting that a satellite-based toll collection system would replace the current FASTag system beginning May 1, 2025, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have issued an official clarification. The government has firmly denied these claims, confirming that no such decision has been made regarding a full-scale switch to satellite tolling.
Instead, the Ministry is set to pilot an advanced toll collection model that integrates Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) with the existing FASTag technology, aiming to revolutionize the current tolling experience through a barrier-less, contactless system.
Key Updates At A Glance
No Satellite-Based Tolling Yet
The Ministry clarified that satellite tolling will NOT be rolled out nationwide from May 1, 2025.
The reports suggesting a nationwide replacement of FASTag are unfounded and misleading.
Actually Being Introduced
The government is launching a pilot program of a Barrier-Less Toll Collection System that combines two technologies:
ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition): Enables cameras to automatically identify vehicles based on their number plates.
FASTag (RFID-based system): Already in widespread use, FASTag enables toll deduction directly from a user’s prepaid or linked bank account.
This dual-technology approach will be tested at selected toll plazas across India before considering a broader rollout.
Barrier-Less Toll System Works
The system enables vehicles to pass through toll plazas without stopping:
ANPR cameras scan the license plates.
FASTag RFID readers confirm vehicle identity and deduct toll fees automatically from the FASTag-linked account.
This minimizes congestion and delays caused by vehicles slowing down or stopping for toll payment.
Enforcement And Penalties
To ensure compliance:
E-notices will be issued to vehicles attempting to bypass tolls or lacking valid FASTags.
Repeat offenders may face: Suspension of FASTag services, Registration-related restrictions under the VAHAN database, Fines or additional penalties, as per transport rules.
Pilot Project Details
The NHAI is inviting bids from technology providers and system integrators for the pilot implementation.
Selected toll plazas will be equipped with the ANPR-FASTag setup.
Based on the results including efficiency, accuracy, and commuter feedback the government will assess the viability of a full-scale rollout.
Current Status – April 2025
The ANPR-FASTag system is still in trial phase and has not been implemented nationally.
Satellite-based tolling remains under evaluation and is not part of the current plan.
Future Outlook
This pilot program reflects India's commitment to smart infrastructure and technology-driven solutions in the transport sector. If successful, the barrier-less tolling system could pave the way for a fully digital and seamless toll collection experience, reduce waiting time, lower emissions, and enhance highway safety.
Welcome to Notopedia.com, your free learning platform that caters to the diverse needs of students and aspirants across a spectrum of entrance exams and educational endeavors. Whether you're preparing for highly anticipated exams like CAT, NEET, JEE Main, or bank job vacancies, our platform offers a wealth of resources to guide you towards success. Stay up-to-date with the latest exam dates, announcements, and results for various government recruitment exams, including SSC CGL, CHSL, NDA, and UPSC. Explore comprehensive study materials, sample papers, and exam patterns to hone your skills and boost your confidence. From important dates like CBSE Class 10 and 12 date sheets to exam-specific information like JEE Main application form date, we cover it all. Notopedia.com is your go-to source for everything from admissions and admit cards to scholarships and college information. Whether you're aiming for a career in defense, government, banking, or higher education, our free learning platform equips you with the knowledge and resources you need to excel. Join us in your educational journey and unlock a world of opportunities, guidance, and comprehensive support.
For more Updates and Information - Visit Notopedia's Bulletin Board
For Latest Sarkari Jobs - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Jobs Section
For access to more than 20,000 Colleges - Visit Notopedia's College Section
For School Studies and Exams Preparation across 14 Boards - Visit Notopedia's School Section
For Comprehensive Preparation of Sarkari Job Exams - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Exams Section
